The 2020 season was disappointing for those who felt that former Arizona State running back Eno Benjamin might have some sort of impact during his rookie season with the Arizona Cardinals. However, he was inactive for all 16 games as a rookie.
The pandemic meant no preseason and limited offseason reps and that made it nearly impossible for him to do anything.
This year, he will have a shot to make an impact.
He will have to capitalize on his opportunities, says running back coach James Saxon.
Saxon was a guest on the team’s weekly radio show, the “Big Red Rage,” and he spoke briefly about Benjamin.
“He’s got great ability,” Saxon said. “It’s going to be time for him. He’s just going to have to take advantage of whatever opportunity he gets. Maybe it’s one play here, maybe it’s 10. He’s going to have to be prepared to be available, No. 1, and, No. 2, to be able to execute properly the thing we’re going to ask him to do.”
Host Paul Calvisi noted how during the offseason program Eno’s effort was noticeable. He attacked every drill full speed, whether it was on offense or special teams.
From what I saw of some of the practices, I can confirm this. He is making an effort to be noticed.
Head coach Kliff Kingsbury said last season Benjamin had to be able to make more of an impact on special teams to crack the rotation.
With training camp and the preseason coming up, we will see if he can do that.
2020 undrafted rookie running back Jonathan Ward was able to do so last year, getting significant time on special teams.
Saxon believes in Eno.
“He’s an exciting young player,” he said.
He is certainly a player to watch in August.
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